Massachusetts program seeks money for advanced courses

The Associated PressIn this Feb. 1, 2012, photo, Alex Jacobs works out math problems during a pilot math class at Reynoldsburg High School in Reynoldsburg, Ohio. More than four in 10 Ohio high school graduates get to college needing at least one remedial reading, science or math course. The makeup work is something they must complete, and pay for, before they begin earning credit toward their degree. Reynoldsburg High School offers a computer-based pilot course that's helping kids bridge the gap. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)

BOSTON (AP) — A nonprofit program that has helped public high schools across the state offer more college-level courses is asking for a massive increase in state funding it says is needed to avoid dropping more than a dozen schools.

The Mass Math Plus Science Initiative says it needs $3.25 million in state funding to maintain advanced placement courses at 53 high schools and to expand the program to 12 additional high schools.

The program currently receives $400,000 in state funding.

The president of Mass Insight Education, the nonprofit that operates the program, tells The Boston Globe it helps students earn college credit and save on tuition.

Gov. Deval Patrick recommended $2.4 million in his budget proposal, but the House Ways and Means Committee recommend only $1 million in its proposed budget.